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Mayor Walters Announces Steps of Change Event to be Held May 18

May 08, 2019

Mayor Don Walters is pleased to announce that the substance use awareness event Steps of Change, presented by Ohio CAN (Change Addiction Now), will be held Saturday, May 18, 2019, from noon to 5 p.m. in Downtown Cuyahoga Falls, 2085 Front Street. The City of Cuyahoga Falls is partnering with Ohio CAN, Summit County Juvenile Court, and the Summit County Common Pleas Turning Point Program in sponsorship of the Steps of Change event.

“The City of Cuyahoga Falls is proud to host and take part in this important event and to help provide resources and services to families touched by substance use,” stated Mayor Don Walters.

Steps of Change is free and open to the public. The event will feature speakers and resources for those impacted by substance use including: recovery services, Narcan training, and court related services. Food vendors and children’s activities also will be featured.

“The Summit County Common Pleas Turning Point Program is proud to be a partner for the Steps of Change event,” stated Judge Joy Oldfield. “Shining a light on those individuals and families impacted by substance use empowers them to seek the help they need. We are grateful for all the resources Summit County has to offer to those struggling with the disease of addiction.”

A memorial will be on display throughout the event with more than 135 pairs of shoes representing those who were lost to substance use in Summit County in 2018.

“Steps of Change recognizes the fact that addiction has numerous victims: Those suffering from the disease of addiction and those who love them,” stated Judge Linda Tucci Teodosio, Summit County Juvenile Court. “We need to remember to support all whose lives have been shattered by this terrible disease”

Speaking about Ohio CAN and the Steps of Change event, Ohio CAN Summit County Coordinator Vickie Gasior said, “We are the family’s voice. We are here to embrace, educate, and empower those whose lives have been impacted by substance use.”